Hampton's Harps happy to bide his time (From Surrey Comet)

Hampton's Harps happy to bide his time

10:34am Friday 27th January 2012 in Non-League By Stuart Amos

Some managers might be frustrated by postponements, but Hampton & Richmond Borough boss Mark Harper could not be happier.

The Beavers saw their FA Trophy second round clash with East Thurrock United called-off for a second time on Tuesday due to a waterlogged pitch.

Harper would have been without defenders Dean Inman (calf) and Matt Ruby (hip) for the match, where a win would set up a third round trip to cash-strapped Northwich Victoria.

And the Beveree chief, who is close to wrapping up a deal to bring ex-Brentford defender Darren Powell back to the club where he started his career, admitted the cancellation played into his hands.

“I’ve seen and played on worse pitches, but I wouldn’t lie by saying I was unhappy with the decision,” he said.

“I want us to give a good account of ourselves and want us to be at full strength.

“I’d rather be putting points on the board in the league, but the trophy is important to the club and the players’ confidence.

“It is an exciting opportunity for us because Northwich might not exist for much longer which would give us a bye into the next round.”

Hampton lost 3-1 to Dartford at the weekend and Harper had to admit the better side won.

“They had more quality. It was a simple as that,” he added.